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Alumni, Commencement, EVENTS, FACULTY, FEATURED, Featured, NEWS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES

Vice President Kamala Harris leaves students inspired after powerful commencement address at TSU, telling them to be the change the world needs

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – “To know that she will forever be a part of my TSU history, and to be inducted as an official member of the Tiger family was a tremendous honor to witness.” That statement sums up how Derrick Sanders felt Saturday after hearing Vice President Kamala Harris’ historic and powerful commencement address at Hale Stadium on the main Tennessee State University campus. The Vice President told graduates to seize the opportunities afforded them to “shape the future of our country.” 

Students flock to Vice President Kamala Harris’ side in jubilation to get selfies, as she enters Hale Stadium accompanied by President Glenda Glover. (Submitted Photo)

“Vice President Harris accepted not only the honorary doctorate degree but she accepted the love, worth and fellowship of this great institution,” added Sanders, outgoing president of the Student Government Association, who received his bachelor’s degree in English. 

Sanders was not alone in his praise of the vice president’s visit and speech. From the rousing cheers that greeted her as the motorcade entered Hale Stadium, to her inspirational speech, and receiving an honorary degree, sentiments about the vice president have reverberated across the TSU family, graduates, and their families. All are still taking in the historic moment where they got to hear and see the vice president of the United States up close on their campus. 

Derrick Sanders, of Cincinnati, Ohio, celebrates after receiving his bachelor’s degree in English. (Submitted Photo)

Sanders’ mother, Marlene Sanders, who came from Cincinnati, Ohio, to see her son receive his degree from the vice president, described the moment as life changing. 

“I was really proud of what Vice President Harris and Dr. Glover did together – two Black women with one goal,” said the proud mother. “I appreciated that she stayed through unforeseen circumstances and took pictures with each graduate. Her words were receptive, appreciative, and encouraging.” 

Vice President Kamala Harris congratulates Student Trustee Tiara Thomas after receiving her degree in political science. (Submitted Photo)

Tiara Thomas, of Olive Branch, Mississippi, whose parents were also in the audience to see her receive her degree in political science, added, “Having Vice President Harris as the keynote speaker was an incredible way to end my undergraduate experience. Her speech gave me chills as I was able to sit on stage with her and see my future possibilities in her.” 

Frederick Parson, a TSU alum and Tiara Thomas’ father, said the vice president’s speech was genuine, relatable, and appropriate. 

Tiara Thomas’ family traveled from Olive Branch, Mississippi, to celebrate her graduation from Tennessee State University. (Submitted Photo)

“It not only inspired the graduates but also those in the audience, like my two youngest daughters who look like she does.  Kudos to the VP for sharing a special moment in time with us that we won’t forget,” Parson said. 

The vice president’s visit to deliver the commencement address at TSU was historic, as it was her first at any university since taking over the second highest office in the land.  Citing current domestic and global affairs, Harris reminded members of the Class of 2022 that they are “graduating in an unsettled world” but were equipped to be the change agents needed to make it better for all people.  

That note struck a chord with Matthew C. Benton, of Atlanta, who received his bachelor’s degree in business administration. 

It was all jubilation Saturday as students celebrated their graduation. (Submitted Photo)

“The speech was as inspirational and empowering as I imagined it would be, and was exactly what I needed to hear,” Benton said. “I’m thankful to have had a university President like Dr. Glover with the right connections and friendships to bring Kamala Harris, the Vice President of the United States, to our campus to give the keynote address. I’m forever grateful to President Glenda Glover. My commencement day is a very special part of TSU history, thank you President Glover.”

Jacqueline Payne was also in the audience to see her son, Emmanuel Wallace, receive his degree in agribusiness. 

“I was extremely proud to see my son along with his peers graduating, and seeing Kamala made me really feel Black Excellence in its rawest form,” Payne said. Her son, Emmanuel Wallace, agreed. 

Emmanuel Wallace’s mother, Jacqueline Payne, was in the audience to see her son receive his degree in agribusiness. (Subitted Photo)

“Graduating among such a successful and ambitious class is very empowering,” Wallace said. “Having the first black female vice president of the United States deliver our commencement speech while encouraging us to be the change in the world was exceedingly inspirational.” 

Jodyn White-Rowell, whose family members traveled from Delaware, Georgia, and Florida to see her receive her bachelor’s degree in agricultural science, said she was inspired.

Jodyn White-Rowell, who received her degree in agricultual science, celebrates with her mother Kimberly White-Rowell. (Submitted Photo)

“Seeing Vice President Kamala Harris, someone who pushes boundaries and inspires others to chase their dreams, come to speak to us encourages me to continue to follow my dreams and push boundaries that are set in front of me,” she said.

Jodyn’s mother, Kimberly White-Rowell, added, “We were so excited to see our daughter and the other graduates walk across the stage. We were also so inspired by President Glover and the commencement speech from VP Kamala Harris who spoke to the heart of all the students, calling the next generation of change agents to the world stage. I can’t wait to see what they all become as educated graduates of TSU.”

You can view the 2022 Spring Undergraduate Commencement on the TSU YouTube channel by visiting tnstate.edu.

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TSU alumni cap off historic commencement with $2.8 million donation to University, including $300,000 presented over the weekend

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Vice President Kamala Harris wasn’t the only thing that made students and family cheer and applaud on Saturday, May 7 during the Tennessee State University Spring Undergraduate Commencement. Without a doubt, Vice President Harris was the main attraction as the crowd roared with excitement as she arrived at Hale stadium. The audience hung on every word of her dynamic and historic commencement address. However, the second loudest cheers were for the TSU Vintagers as University President Glenda Glover announced their $300,000 donation for student scholarships. With the gift, the group’s contribution to the institution has totaled more than $2.8 million since July 2019. 

Each Spring Commencement, as part of their week-long events, Vintagers dress in caps and gowns and join the ceremony to relive their graduation day. (Submitted photo)

“We thank you for your generosity and commitment to continue to think of TSU often, to work for TUS’s continued growth and development, and to serve TSU for many more years to come,” said TSU President Glover.  

On commencement eve, TSU Vintagers – a group of individuals who graduated from the institution 40 years or more ago – presented President Glover with the $300,000 check for scholarships and other University needs. 

Barbara Murrell, of the class of 1960, was among those who presented the check to President Glover. She said Vintagers are glad to return to the “Land of Golden Sunshine” each year to demonstrate their support of the institution and students through scholarships. She hailed President Glover for the choice of Vice President Kama Harris as the commencement speaker. 

President Glenda Glover presents a special award to Dr, Katie Kinnard White, member of the Class of 1952, as the oldest living Vintager. Dr, White is 90 years old. (Submitted photo)

“It was a glorious and historic day at TSU as Kamala Harris, Vice President of the United States of America, congratulated and empowered graduates with a message of reality, high expectations, possibilities and hope,” said Murrell, who was a senior administrator at the university for many years. 

Following the vice president’s address, the Golden Vintagers, highlighting 50 years of service to TSU since graduating, were next on the program to cross the stage. Each received a certificate of appreciation.  

Newly inducted Vintager Ronald Ashley, class agent for the class of 1980, said planned activities for the past years were put off because of the pandemic, but considering the well-planned events culminating with the appearance of the Vice President, “it was well worth the wait.” 

“To come back to TSU face-to-face with the members of all the other classes, the energy that we all felt and the love for the school and being able to see and hear what other alums have done within their class as far as their financial donation, was just overwhelming,” Ashley said. “I was just filled with emotion and joy yesterday as we sat in Hale Stadium and witnessed the vice president of the United States of America come to our campus, our stage to address the graduates as well as the Tennessee State family. That was truly special.”

Vintager Class Agents present donations from their individual groups, (Submitted photo)

The Vintagers’ donations and other charitable gifts to the university are managed by the TSU Foundation to support literary, scientific, educational, scholarship, charitable and development purposes and goals at the university. 

Dr. Grandville Sawyer, an alumnus and coordinator of alumni affairs, came up with the name Vintagers in 1962, on the 50th anniversary of the university. The program is now in its 70th year. Each spring commencement, members return and hold different functions. On graduation day, they dress in caps and gowns and join the ceremony to relive their graduation day. They also induct new members, as well as celebrate those entering their “golden” years (70, 71, 72) of graduation. This year’s newly inducted members are from the classes of ’80, ’81, and ’82. 

This year, a key highlight of the Vintagers’ events was the celebration of the oldest living member, Dr. Katie Kinnard White, member of the class of 1952, who is 90 years old. 

Debbi Howard, Director of Alumni Relations, welcomes Vintagers to their annual class reunion ceremony, (Submitted Photo)

Debbi Howard, director of Alumni Relations, said Vintagers reunions offer a rich tradition of reconnecting classmates with their alma mater, as well as reflecting on the tremendous impact TSU has made on their life. 

“We are glad that this reunion, like all of those in the past, gave you the opportunity to rekindle many lifelong friendships, as well as reminisce on the people, places and events that made your experience at TSU so memorable,” Howard said. She thanked her staff, alumni and volunteers who helped to make the Vintagers’ week successful.

You can view the 2022 Spring Undergraduate Commencement, including the Golden Vintagers ceremony on the TSU YouTube channel by visiting tnstate.edu.

Commencement

Vice President Harris to Deliver Commencement Address at Tennessee State University

Friday, May 6, Vice President Kamala Harris traveled to Nashville, Tennessee where she will deliver the undergraduate commencement address at Tennessee State University. The commencement ceremony will take place at Hale Building Stadium on Saturday, May 7th. Vice President Harris will be joined by TSU President Glenda Glover, Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin, and Nashville Mayor John Cooper. There, she will also accept an honorary Doctorate of Humane Laws. Vice President Harris will speak to more than 500 graduates about the opportunity and responsibility of leadership in this moment in history. She will discuss how the world needs them and their individual perspectives to help shape the principles that will define the future. She will also talk about how her own experiences—including as a fellow graduate of a Historically Black College or University (HBCU)—have influenced the way she views the world.

Vice President Harris’ participation in Tennessee State University’s graduation ceremonies comes after a year and a half of historic investments by the Biden-Harris Administration in Historically Black Colleges and Universities, including $5.8 billion in resources and the reissuance of the White House Initiative on HBCUs. In March, President Biden announced TSU President Dr. Glenda Glover would serve as Vice Chair of President Biden’s Board of Advisors on HBCUs. 

As a graduate of Howard University, Vice President Harris understands first-hand the critical role of HBCUs in strengthening our country and developing future leaders, and has prioritized visiting HBCUs and meeting with HBCU leaders. Vice President Harris has visited Hampton University, Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, and Howard University, and as recently as this month met with Thurgood Marshall Fund Presidents and Chancellors.

On January 20, 2021, Vice President Harris became the first Vice President to have graduated from an HBCU. On Saturday, May 7th, she will become the first sitting Vice President to have graduated from HBCU to deliver the keynote address at an HBCU’s Commencement. 

Vice President Harris will also deliver the keynote address during the U.S. Coast Guard Academy’s Commencement Exercises on May 18th in New London, Connecticut. In 2021, she delivered the commencement address at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.

Excerpts from Vice President Harris’ Remarks as Prepared

“Each of you has your own story. Your own way of looking at the world, shaped by every moment that brought you to this point. I was around your age when I made the decision that I wanted to take on systemic problems from inside the system. That I would seek solutions through the lens of my own experiences and perspectives. That I wanted—that I needed—to be in the rooms where decisions were being made. Graduates, you stand on the brink of a new frontier… and we need you in the room helping to make these decisions.”

“I stand before you today—as the Vice President of the United States of America, and as a proud graduate of a HBCU—to say: There is no limit to your capacity for greatness. There is no obstacle you cannot overcome. There is no barrier you cannot break.

“I want you to always remember that you are not alone. That you come from people. That you come with people. Because I promise you, there will be a time when you walk into a boardroom, or a courtroom, or maybe even the Situation Room. You will walk into the room, and find that you are the only person there who looks like you or has had your life experience. At that moment, you must remember you are not in that room alone.”

Doctorate of Humane Laws

Tennessee State University’s Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree recognizes individuals who inspire others, personify excellence, integrity, and commitment, and enhance the public good. According to TSU, “Vice President Kamala Harris serves as the first female and first person of color in her capacity as the Vice President of the United States of America, and as such makes her an excellent recipient for this award.  For these accomplishments and more, Vice President Harris will be presented with the Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree.”

Notable individuals who have received the Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Tennessee State University include: Coach Ed Temple, TSU and Olympic Track and Field Coach, considered the greatest track and field coach of all times; Rev. Al Sharpton, Civil Rights Leader and Motivational Speaker; and Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, Author and Motivational Speaker.

Biden-Harris Administration’s Accomplishment on HBCUs

  • The American Rescue Plan included $3.7 billion to help HBCUs support students’ basic needs during pandemic, support campus operations, staffing, teaching, and educational programs; and keep campus safe from COVID.
  • The Department of Education announced $1.6 billion of debt discharged from loans provided to HBCUs institutions in April 2021.
  • The Department of Education awarded more than $500 million in grant funding to HBCUs for academic capacity-building and fiscal stability.
  • In September 2021, President Biden signed an Executive Order to re-establish the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through HBCUs and issued a proclamation recognizing National HBCU Week.
  • During HBCU week 2022, President Biden also named Tony Allen, President of Delaware State University, as Chair of the President’s Board of Advisors on HBCUs.
  • In response to bomb threats earlier this year at over 50 HBCU campuses, the Administration announced Project School Emergency Response to Violence (Project SERV) grants for HBCUs that have recently experienced a bomb threat. The $50,000 -$150,000 Project SERV grants could be used for mental health services or improvements to security and readiness infrastructure for impacted Universities.

Tennessee State University

Tennessee State University was founded in 1912 and is Nashville’s only public university and a historically black university. TSU offers 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and eight doctoral degrees.  TSU is a comprehensive research-intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, along with the Otis Floyd Nursery Research Center in McMinnville, Tennessee.  Tennessee State University received $58.5 in Higher Education Emergency Relief Funds from the American Rescue Plan.

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“We are proud to partner with TSU:” Kroger donates $100,000 in scholarship aid to College of Agriculture

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Four Tennessee State University College of Agriculture students will be $25,000 richer in scholarship aid, thanks to Kroger.

President Glenda Glover speaks with Sonya Hostetler, President of Kroger Nashville Division at the check presentation ceremony. (Photo by Janiece Pigg)

The University and the retail giant will establish the Kroger Scholarship and Student Success Fund at TSU in support of first-year students pursuing degrees intending to promote careers in the agricultural and food industry and workforce development.

The grocer is awarding TSU $100,000.

As the donation will introduce TSU students to career opportunities Sonya Hostetler, the grocer’s Nashville Division President, she said looks forward to a future with the University.

“This investment reinforces Kroger’s commitment to build up the communities we serve,” Hostetler said.  “We are proud to partner with TSU to support these students and ultimately, our future workforce.”

Dr. Chandra Reddy, Dean of the College of agriculture, speaks with Shantavia Webb, Kroger Human Resource Leader. (Photo by Janiece Pigg)

The check presentation took place in the Agriculture Biotechnology building with Kroger executives who joined President Glenda Glover, Dean and Director of Research/Administrator of Extension Chandra Reddy and TSU staff.

President Glover stated that $25,000 to start an education at TSU is a phenomenal investment for the students and the grocer.

“It plants the seed for success for our students,” Glover said. “It’s not what you do for TSU, but what you do for the board of community,” she told the Kroger executives.

During the presentation a Farm Bill scholarship recipient, TSU freshman Dacia Ringo, mentioned how grateful she is for scholarship opportunities as such.

“I know that this scholarship is going to help a lot of people like myself. Without that scholarship I wouldn’t be in school,” Ringo said.

“Thank you to everyone who made this opportunity possible.”

President Glenda Glover shares a moment with TSU freshman Dacia Ringo who is a Farm Bill scholarship recipient. (Photo by Janiece Pigg)

The colleges’ Director of Marketing and Communications Roderick Reed contacted Kroger regarding the funding opportunity and stated that he looks forward to working closely with the grocer to strengthen their relationship with TSU.

Dr. De’Etra Young, Associate Dean for Academics and Land-Grant Programs, said the donation will be beneficial to the lives of four deserving students who are seeking a career in agriculture.

“We receive inquires all the time from students seeking assistance. So this would change the impact for four students that are interested in pursuing agriculture,” Young said.

She stated that the selected students will work closely with faculty, staff and Kroger while receiving mentorship opportunities.

Over the course of 4-years throughout the undergraduate program, four selected scholars will receive up to $25,000 based on their financial needs, totaling in $100,000 in direct scholar’s aid. This is Kroger’s first donation to TSU, Young said, but she has hopes that this will become an annual gesture with additional industry partners.

“I think the college has been doing great, innovative work. So for us to receive initial recognition just confirms the work that we are doing.”

Rodrick Reed, Director of marketing and communications and De’Etra Young, Associate Dean for Academics and Land-Grant Programs De’Etra Young at Kroger check presentation. (Photo by Janiece Pigg)

Young stated that the college has a dean’s scholarship program that supports undergraduate research and internship opportunities, a program that currently has more than 40 students. While the College of Agriculture receives grant awards often, TSUAg obtained 68 competitive grants, totaling in almost $24 million last year. TSUAg was the top external funding award recipient at TSU.

In 2019 the college was awarded $100,000 from SunTrust now Truist fund agriculture education for four students, receiving $25,000 each.

Prior to, TSU was awarded $450,000 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for food safety research in 2018.

First-year agriculture students will be able to apply for the scholarship in Fall 2022. Eligible students must be selected through an application process that evaluates merit thresholds and relevant majors, according to Dean Chandra Reddy. Continuation of student funding will be subject to satisfactory academic progress in the field of study and any scholarship program restrictions that may apply.

Additionally, scholarship funds may be made available to assist the students with educational support such as tutoring or to ensure academic success.

For more information regarding the upcoming scholarship opportunity, internships,  and or other financial opportunities, contact Dr. De’Etra Young at (615) 963-5123 or email [email protected].

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

About Tennessee State University Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university, and is a  premier, historically black university and land-grant institution offering 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and seven doctoral degrees.  TSU is a comprehensive research intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation, and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, along with the Otis Floyd Nursery Research Center in McMinnville, Tennessee.  With a commitment to excellence, Tennessee State University provides students  with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders in every facet of society. Visit the University online at tnstate.edu.

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Vice President Kamala Harris to headline Tennessee State University commencement, will also feature Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin

By Kelli Sharpe

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Vice President Kamala Harris will headline Tennessee State University’s 2022 Spring Commencement in May. Vice President Harris will deliver the keynote address for the undergraduate Commencement on Saturday, May 7 at 9 a.m. CDT in Hale Stadium. Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin will address graduate students at an indoor ceremony on Friday, May 6 at 5 p.m. CDT in the Gentry Center Complex.  University officials say nearly 900 students will receive degrees in various disciplines.   

“We are excited to have the Vice President of the United States, Kamala Harris and Mayor Randall Woodfin of Birmingham, two trailblazers and history makers, deliver the keynote address for our commencement ceremonies,” says TSU President Glenda Glover.   

“Commencement marks a major milestone in our students’ lives, but to have the Vice President of the United States as your guest speaker makes this moment even more special for our students and their families. I believe they will also appreciate the fact that both Vice President Harris and Mayor Woodfin are HBCU graduates, a testament to the caliber of students TSU and other HBCUs produce. The TSU family looks forward to both ceremonies and featured speakers.”   

Both ceremonies will follow COVID-19 guidelines. For more information on Spring Commencement 2022, visit www.tnstate.edu/commencement.  President Glenda Glover will be available for interviews via Zoom or by phone. Contact the TSU Media Relations Office to schedule a time.

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

About Tennessee State University

Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university, and is a premier, historically black university and land-grant institution offering 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and eight doctoral degrees. TSU is a comprehensive research intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation, and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, along with the Otis Floyd Nursery Research Center in McMinnville, Tennessee. With a commitment to excellence, Tennessee State University provides students with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders in every facet of society. Visit the University online at tnstate.edu.

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Dr. Nancy Wolfe-Sidberry Lets Her Actions Speak Louder Than Her Words as She Pushes Through the Pandemic

by: Ciara Walker Williams

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Two years ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Covid-19 a pandemic and the former president issued a National Emergency leading to stay-at-home orders around the world. Since then, health care professionals like Dr. Nancy Wolfe-Sidberry have been on the front-line fighting to save lives while trying not to lose their own.

Dr. Sidberry in yearbook headshot photo with sorority sisters

“Watching patients overcome illnesses is always inspiring,” says Sidberry. “But Covid was a nightmare. I lost so many patients.”

Sidberry is a Family Medical Doctor at Brentwood Family Care Center and is affiliated with Ascension Saint Thomas Hospitals (Midtown and West) as well as TriStar Centennial Medical Center. As a primary care physician, she is trained to care for children and families and has been in practice for nearly 40 years.

“I’ve wanted to be a doctor since the age of two,” says Sidberry who followed in her family’s footsteps and attended Tennessee State University. After graduating with a Bachelor’s in 1974 and a Master’s in 1976, she went on to receive her M.D. from Meharry Medical College School of Medicine in 1985.

Dr. Sidberry pictured with her sorority sisters of Alpha Kappa Alpha on the campus of TSU

“My entire family attended TSU, so it was the only college I knew,” she says while adding that her alma mater’s motto: Think. Work. Serve. inspires her to think about what she wants, work to achieve it, and do her best.

With the mental and emotional challenges that have led to burnout for many health care providers in the last two years, giving her best is what has sustained Sidberry. She was among the age population that was at risk, but that has not stopped her from educating and caring for patients.

“I find peace by going to work every day and doing the best that I can do,” she says. “I get discouraged, but I must keep going. I just put one foot in front of the other and keep going. My self-care is helping others.”

While she doesn’t recall who inspired her to become a doctor, she says she never wanted anything else. Her advice to students is to choose their own path.

“Each of us has to choose our path, and I hope that each person chooses what’s right,” says Sidberry. “Just do the right thing for yourself and no one else.”

In addition to offering comprehensive medical care for her patients, she is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians.

Sidberry is a woman of few words and a big heart. “I don’t like being in the spotlight,” she says candidly. “I just love practicing medicine and living a quiet life.

TSU proudly salutes alumna Dr. Nancy Wolfe-Sidberry during National Minority Health Month.

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

About Tennessee State University

Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university, and is a premier, historically black university and land-grant institution offering 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and eight doctoral degrees. TSU is a comprehensive research intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation, and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, along with the Otis Floyd Nursery Research Center in McMinnville, Tennessee. With a commitment to excellence, Tennessee State University provides students with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders in every facet of society. Visit the University online at tnstate.edu.

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TSU announces new Student Government Association leaders in first in-person election since pandemic

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU New Service) – It’s officials! Tennessee State University Student Government Association has a new group of officers for the 2022-2023 academic year. The new student leadership, including a Mister TSU and a Miss TSU, was announced Friday during an elaborate ceremony on the main campus after a week of campaigning. It was the first in-person campaigning and election since the pandemic.

Kenneth Rolle II, SGA President

TSU President Glenda Glover, along with staff from the Office of Student Affairs, congratulated the new officers when the election results were announced. 

Kenneth Role II, a senior urban studies major from Orlando, Florida, was elected president, while Aliyah Holmes, a sophomore double major in political science and criminal justice from Houston, was elected vice president.

Aliyah Holmes, SGA Vice President

Sa’Mariah Harding, a rising senior majoring in mathematics and secondary education from Indianapolis, was elected the 93rd Miss TSU. Tre’Veon Hayes, the new Mister TSU, will escort her. Hayes, a rising senior majoring in elementary education, is from Memphis, Tennessee.

Frank Stevenson, associate vice president of student affairs and dean of students, described the new officers as a “dynamic group” of student leaders.

“They were each very strategic in sharing their platforms during the campaign,” Stevenson said. “Student leadership at TSU is not accidental but very intentional, and this group proves that in practice.” 

Sa’Mariah Harding, Miss TSU

Rolle, who becomes the 82nd executive president of the SGA, said his goal is “to get students’ concerns at the forefront of the agenda.”

“My goal is to make sure student concerns are heard and something is done about them, especially when it comes to financial aid, student housing, and the rest.,” Rolle said.

Harding, the new Miss TSU, who ran on the theme “The Louder the Prouder the Tiger Family,” said her goal is “to get every woman on campus feel as a queen.”

Tre’Veon Hayes, Mister TSU

“I want to make sure that every woman feels good about themselves every day when they wake up,” Harding said. “I want to make sure they are proud about who they are, and loud and proud about being a TSU Tiger.”

Dr. Andre Bean, assistant dean of Student Engagement and Leadership, said he’s confident the new group of SGA leadership has a strong agenda to move the student body in a very positive direction.

“I am excited about this group of students and I am looking forward to what they have to bring to the table,” Bean said.

Following is the list of the Royal Court and other members of the SGA:

Mister Senior – Irwin Todd

Miss Senior – Zion Bonds

Mister Junior – Timothy Brewer

Miss Junior – Victoria McCrae

Mister Sophomore – Cotton Chandler

Miss sophomore – Zaria Hobbs

Representatives-At-Large

Michael Darden

Tanya McNeal

Kyra Tucker

Dajah Robinson

Keyanna Canady

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

About Tennessee State University

Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university, and is a premier, historically black university and land-grant institution offering 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and eight doctoral degrees. TSU is a comprehensive research intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation, and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, along with the Otis Floyd Nursery Research Center in McMinnville, Tennessee. With a commitment to excellence, Tennessee State University provides students with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders in every facet of society. Visit the University online at tnstate.edu.

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TSU Debate and Forensics Team No. 1 Nationwide among HBCUs, wins 3rd consecutive championship

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The Tennessee State University Debate and Forensics Team is number 1 among HBCUs in the nation. At the recent 5th Annual HBCU National Speech and Debate Competition at Prairie View A&M University, TSU walked away with 10 national titles, 50 total awards and the overall tournament championship, making them the top HBCU in the country for the third consecutive year. 

TSU’s Debate and Forensics Team members, from left (sitting): Aliyah Holmes, Marshaun Adams, Akyra McDougal, Sanae Chestnut, Ashlynn Freeman, Mark Twyman, Deja Thomas, Ayana Nichole, Chase Garrett and Maya McClary. Back row (standing): Mariah Brown, De’Traelyn Hubbard, Elizabeth Ward, Dwight DeBerry and DezNeshia Glasper. (Submitted photo)

“I started three years ago not winning at any tournament and now to being a three-time national champion is phenomenal,” said team captain Maya McClary, a senior mass communications major from Orlando, Florida. “My experience on the team has been life changing. Forensics has taught me to use my speech as an outlet to express myself.  I would not change anything or anyone on this team.”

Ashlynn Freeman, a sophomore and first-year member of the team, said this championship is special because it gave her a voice she didn’t have before.

Maya McClary, Team Captain

“As a young African American woman, I feel constantly that I have no voice in the world because I am shown not to be heard,” said Freeman, an agricultural science major from Kansas City, Kansas. “With the platform that speech and debate give me, I’m being heard.”

This year, the tournament returned to in-person, after going virtual the last two years due to the pandemic. Other institutions participating in the tournament April 1-3 included Howard University, Texas Southern University and North Carolina A&T.

Prof. Sean Allen, director of forensics in the TSU Department of Communications, is the coach of the TSU debate team. He attributes the success of the group to the “hard work” of the students and to the support of the communications department.

Ashlynn Freeman, First-Year Team Member

“This win was a group effort,” said Allen, who has been with the program at the university for the last six years. “This couldn’t have been achieved without the support from the communications department and university competitions like the Robert N Murrell Oratorical Competition, where I recruit top talent.”

Dr. Jacqueline W. Mitchell, professor and chair of the Oratorical competition, congratulated the team for their championship, and thanked Prof. Allen for his commitment.

Prof. Sean Allen, Team Coach

“The TSU Forensics Team, #1 nationally ranked, consistently outranks competing HBCUs year after year under the coaching of Professor Sean Allen,” said Mitchell, who also chairs the Robert N. Murrell Oratorical Contest. “Because of this national reputation which we’ve held for several years, we attract annually the top high school debaters across the nation to our freshman class. They all want to be a part of a top-seeded winning team, which TSU provides at the highest level.”

For more information on the TSU Forensics and Debate Team, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/Communications/forensics.aspx

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

About Tennessee State University

Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university, and is a premier, historically black university and land-grant institution offering 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and eight doctoral degrees. TSU is a comprehensive research intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation, and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, along with the Otis Floyd Nursery Research Center in McMinnville, Tennessee. With a commitment to excellence, Tennessee State University provides students with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders in every facet of society. Visit the University online at tnstate.edu.

Alumni, EVENTS, FACULTY, FEATURED, Featured, NEWS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES

Over 4,000 attend TSU Spring Preview Day, potential for record-setting freshman class for 2022 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – On Saturday, more than 4,000 eagerly waiting high school students and their families packed the Gentry Center Complex to get their first taste of TSU and the HBCU experience. It was Spring Preview Day at Tennessee State University, when the institution invites high school junior and seniors to various elaborate ceremonies across campus to acquaint them with the university’s offerings, admission processes and campus life. 

President Glenda Glover welcomes visiting students and their family members to Spring Preview Day. (Photo by Aaron Grayson, TSU Media Relations)

This year’s preview day saw the return to in-person gathering, the first in nearly two years due to the pandemic. The record number of visitors represented 15 states, including California, Texas, Michigan, Illinois, and Wisconsin. 

Cherri Branch Donelson, a high school English teacher from Memphis, with a long history of family members coming to TSU, said, she couldn’t wait to get her daughter, Leah Dylainee Donelson, to enroll at the university. 

Cherri Branch Donelson, left, says it was an easy decision for her daughter, Leah Dylainee Donelson, to enroll at TSU. (Photo by Aaron Grayson, TSU Media Relations)

“The energy in here today is just what I have always imagined with generations of my family members coming to TSU from when it was Tennessee A&I,” Cherri Branch said. “It was an easy decision for my daughter to come here. The first person in my family to go to college came here and that started a long legacy beginning from the 1950s. And my daughter is ready. She has worked hard for this day.” 

“I will be a Tiger here next semester,” said Leah Dylainee, a Bartlett High School academic standout, who has already been admitted. She plans to study mass communications and media. “I love this school, not just because of my family members coming here. I was drawn to TSU because of the culture.” 

The record number of visitors to Spring Preview Day came from about 15 states, including California, Texas, Michigan, Illinois, and Wisconsin. (Photo by Aaron Grayson, TSU Media Relations)

Earlier, TSU President Glenda Glover joined the festivities to welcome the new Tigers and their family members. 

“Welcome to Tennessee State University,” Glover said, to loud applauds from the crowd. “We here at TSU we make sure your children are taken care of. We make sure they get the best education. We have various colleges, majors, and programs to choose from. We have the faculty, academic programs, and an active student life to teach you how to succeed in college. To you parents, when you leave your child with us, we will make sure we take care of them.” 

Charles Crutchfield IV, a pre-med major who came to Spring Preview with his father, mother, and younger sister, is coming to TSU in the fall as part of the Levi Watkins Institute, a collaboration between TSU and Meharry Medical College for exceptional students who want to become medical doctors. 

Charles Crutchfield IV, incoming pre-med freshman, attends Spring Preview with his family. From left, are Laurie Crutchfield, mom; Arianna Crutchfield, sister; Charles IV; and Dr. Charles Crutchfield III, father. (Photo by Aaron Grayson, TSU Media Relations)

“TSU’s outstanding reputation I heard through the Levi Watkins program drew me to this school,” said Crutchfield IV, of St. Paul, Minnesota, whose father, Charles Crutchfield III, is a medical doctor. “I love this school. In fact, the welcome here today is the biggest I have seen in all my college tours, and it makes me feel even more at home here.” 

Sammy Edward Freeman III, who wants to study criminal justice, and his mother, Tremika Guess, from Memphis, were among the early arrivals at Spring Preview. He chose TSU “because of the programs, the people and to be closer to home.” 

Sammy Edward Freeman III, an academic standout from Memphis’ Kirby High School, attends Spring Preview with his mom, Tremika Guess. (Photo by Aaron Grayson, TSU Media Relations)

“What really brought me to TSU is the hospitality; it is an HBCU, and I am around many people I know from my hometown,” said Freeman, who hopes to be the first in his family to graduate college. “I feel very comfortable and already feel at home. You have pretty good programs.”

Freeman’s mother, Tremika Guess, added, “I am happy for him. He has been looking forward to this. He has worked hard. He has earned it. He received a scholarship here, and we are going to take full advantage of that.”

Saturday’s activities also included an academic and student services fair in Kean Hall, where the various colleges and department set up tents and tables to meet students. It also included meetings with faculty and student leaders, including Mister and Miss TSU; and a parents-only gathering where parents received information on how to respond to their children’s needs while on campus. The all-day event culminated with campus tours, as well as the Big Blue Tiger Spring Blue & White Football Game in Hale Stadium, with entertainment by the world-renowned Aristocrat of Bands. 

Terrance Izzard, left, Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Success, greets incoming freshman Justin Pruitt, right, and his father Jacob Pruitt. (Photo by Aaron Grayson, TSU Media Relations)

Terrance Izzard, associate vice president of enrollment management and student success, applauded the record turn-out, and thanked the student services department for “an outstanding program.” 

“Spring Preview Day was bigger and better than ever with record number of eagerly waiting people to learn more about the HBCU experience,” Izzard said. “We are thankful to have the strong leadership in our division to help students get admitted and complete the enrollment process. I think the excitement in the room was because students are happy to be on campus.” 

At a parents-only gathering, Tasha Andrews-Carson, Executive Director of New Student Programs, talks to the visitors about how to respond to their children’s needs while on campus. (Photo by Aaron Grayson, TSU Media Relations)

The record crowd for this year’s Spring Preview, was up from the previous record of 1,200 for the last in-person Preview Day in 2019. Officials said more than half of all high school seniors at the program Saturday had received admission letters.

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

About Tennessee State University

Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university, and is a premier, historically black university and land-grant institution offering 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and eight doctoral degrees. TSU is a comprehensive research intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation, and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, along with the Otis Floyd Nursery Research Center in McMinnville, Tennessee. With a commitment to excellence, Tennessee State University provides students with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders in every facet of society. Visit the University online at tnstate.edu.

Alumni, EVENTS, FACULTY, Featured, FEATURED, NEWS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES

TSU Student Leadership Group Visits Headquarters of WM, Leading Provider of Environmental Services

NASHVILLE, Tenn.  (TSU News Service) – More than 30 Tennessee State University (TSU) students recently traveled to Houston, Texas, to visit the WM corporate headquarters and meet with the company’s senior leadership team. The students, accompanied by Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students Frank Stevenson, are participants in Leadership TSU, one of the university’s most selective student leadership programs.

Leadership TSU students,  and L to R, Dr. Napoleon Harris ( Coordinator of Student Support), Molly Morrissey (Sr. Community Relations- WM), Frank Stevenson (Associate VP and Dean of Students),  and Eddie McManus (Mid-South Area Vice President- WM), take a Group picture in the WM Corporate Headquarters office in Houston. (Submitted Photo)

During their visit, the students heard from members of WM’s executive leadership team about the personal and professional experiences that have impacted their success, the company’s approach to sustainability, and more.

“It was just very mind-blowing and very impactful seeing those [executives] and what WM is doing,” said Anarra Williams, a senior food and nutritional science major from Daytona, Ohio. “When I first got there, I just thought those were people who pick up our trash, but they really are honing on their sustainability piece, something I want to be a part of.”

WM President and CEO Jim Fish shares a moment with some members of Leadership TSU during the group’s visit. (Submitted Photo)

Nykole Allen Clark, a senior business administration major from Las Vegas, Nevada, added, “That exposure to them and the company itself totally changed our perception of WM. As a business major, I saw a lot and heard a lot to help me in my preparation as a student and as a leader. It was an aha moment for me.”

In their day-long visit, the students met with WM’s top executives on key topics, including the company’s approach to sustainability and how this focus shapes its operations. For example, WM focuses on materials recovery solutions at its area landfills, such as its 183-acre site in Nashville, home to the only mixed construction and demolition (C&D) materials recovery facility in Davidson County. Students also engaged in a robust Q&A with each of the WM leaders. Tamla Oates-Forney, who oversees WM’s people team, fielded questions from students about her experience as a black female executive in corporate America, sharing why education is an opportunity equalizer and why diversity and inclusion are important in leadership and the workplace

WM Chief People Officer Tamla Oates-Forney engages with Leadership TSU students. (Submitted Photo)

“The Houston trip was amazing. To have WM roll out the red carpet of leadership experience for our students was simply breathtaking,” said Stevenson. “They were intentional about making sure our students had a glimpse into their company’s culture. It was amazing conversation and dialogue between students and the WM executive team. I think our students were surprised at all of the components of WM.”

The Leadership TSU visit is an extension of a three-year partnership between WM and TSU first announced late last year. Through that partnership, WM has committed $300,000 to TSU; half of that funding will be directed toward sustainability research conducted in collaboration with TSU’s Colleges of Agriculture and Engineering, and the other half will provide need-based scholarships to up to 10 students each year attending TSU from the Nashville area.

“The energy and curiosity of these student leaders was truly inspiring,” said Eddie McManus, Mid-South area vice president, WM. “This visit was a great way to kick off our relationship with TSU, and we look forward to all that is ahead, including building out the research program and getting to know more students through the internship and scholarship opportunities.”

Visit TSU online at tnstate.edu, and to learn more about WM and the company’s sustainability progress and solutions, visit sustainability.wm.com.

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

About Tennessee State University

Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university, and is a premier, historically black university and land-grant institution offering 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and eight doctoral degrees. TSU is a comprehensive research intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation, and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, along with the Otis Floyd Nursery Research Center in McMinnville, Tennessee. With a commitment to excellence, Tennessee State University provides students with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders in every facet of society. Visit the University online at tnstate.edu.